Student Focus on Jose Germain

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Jose Germain
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
High School: Douglas MacArthur High School
Undergraduate Institution: The University of Texas at San Antonio
Undergraduate Degree: BS in Biology
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2025

Q&A

How old were you when you received your first eye exam? What was the experience like for you?

I was in 1st grade and remember struggling to see the board in class. My teacher reached out to my mother and recommended that I go see an optometrist. My mom always recalls my enthusiasm after being able to read the letters on Snellen chart with my first pair of glasses. From that point on, my life depended on my glasses/contacts until I had refractive surgery (ICL - Implantable Collamer Lens).

Do you have any optometrists in your family?

I will be my family’s first optometrist and doctor!

When did you realize that you wanted to pursue a career in optometry?

I knew I wanted to pursue a career in optometry after working in refractive surgery/ocular disease and vision therapy clinics in college. The field offers a wide variety of opportunities to change the lives of our patients!

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

I remember exploring the Ohio State Optometry website and reading “Our goal is simple - to admit the 68 best first-year optometry students in the country.” A bold statement backed by exceptional boards passage rates, a unique out-of-state tuition model, an incredible new clinic and the development of career-leading alumni. I knew I wanted to learn from and train with the best.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

My first experience with Ohio State Optometry was in the summer of 2019 as a student in the Improving Diversity in Optometric Careers (I-DOC) program. Growing up, I dreamt of going to a world-renowned university and was left speechless when I first stepped foot on campus. The overwhelming support the faculty and staff gave me was special. They’ve welcomed our class into the profession with open arms.

What surprised you most about Ohio State and/or Columbus?

The vibes! Columbus reminds me so much of Austin, Texas and I really enjoy the culture this city offers. Being so far from home, it helps to never be bored.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I’ve joined the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA), American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), Fellowship of Christian Optometrists (FCO), Ocular Disease Club and am a Pre-Optometry Mentor. I’ve decided to finish my first semester before fully committing to more involvement within these clubs/organizations but have really enjoyed the events so far.

How do you relax and unwind after a busy day of classes?

I’ll usually try to go for a run, read a book near Mirror Lake, watch an episode of my favorite TV show or hit the driving range to try and unwind.

Who has most positively affected you during your time as an optometry student so far?

My classmates. We have gotten along so well and have been so supportive of one another since our first interactions. The friendships we’ve made have really contributed to a positive learning environment, and I also really enjoy spending time with them outside of the classroom.

How is your first semester of optometry school going so far? What have you most enjoyed? What’s been most challenging?

It’s been great! The upperclassmen have been really helpful and welcoming into the Ohio State Optometry family. Ohio State game days and ΕΨE tailgates have definitely been the most enjoyable. It was difficult adjusting to the workload at first but after getting through our first round of midterms, I have developed a schedule that really works for me.

What advice do you have for students who are going through their optometry school application process now?

Enjoy the process. Get to know the school more than you want them to get to know you! Try to have some experience working/shadowing at different types of practices to see the variety of opportunities this field has to offer.

Do you have any plans for Winter Break?

I’ll be going home to get some much needed rest and relaxation with my friends/family. I will also spend some time applying what I’ve learned at the practice I worked at previously, shoutout to my Parkhurst Nuvision family!